Syria Type Approvals
Overview
Type Approval in Syria is governed by the Syrian Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority (SY-TPRA).
Unlike its Gulf neighbors (Saudi Arabia/Kuwait), the primary challenge in Syria is not just technical compliance, but navigating the intersection of local regulations and international sanctions.
1. Regulatory Authority
Name: Syrian Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority (SY-TPRA).
Role: Regulates the ICT sector, manages the National Frequency Plan, and issues equipment authorizations.
Website: sytpra.gov.sy
2. Critical Market Access Update (2025)
US Sanctions Relief (Sep 2025): The US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) introduced the “License Exception Syria Peace and Prosperity (SPP)”.
Impact: This authorizes the export of EAR99 items (which includes most standard consumer communications devices like phones, routers, and laptops) to Syria without a specific license, provided they are not for prohibited end-users (e.g., military/police).
Result: It is now significantly easier for US-origin technology to legally enter the market compared to previous years.
3. Key Process Details
| Feature | Detail |
| In-Country Testing | Not Required. SY-TPRA accepts foreign test reports (EU/RED). |
| Local Representative | Mandatory. You must have a registered local dealer/importer in Syria to file the application. |
| Validity | 3 Years. (Renewable). |
| Lead Time | Typically 4 to 6 weeks. |
| Sample Requirement | Case-by-Case. Samples are often requested for new categories or if the documentation is unclear. |
4. Technical & Frequency Rules
Compliance Standard: Syria follows the European (RED) model. You must submit ETSI/EN test reports.
Safety: Strict enforcement of IEC 62368-1. Old IEC 60950 reports are rejected for new applications.
Wi-Fi 6E (New): As of September 2024, SY-TPRA officially approved the 5925–6425 MHz band for Wi-Fi 6E (Low Power Indoor, max 200mW).
5G Status: Pilot Phase. Syriatel and MTN Syria launched 5G pilots in mid-2025. Type Approval for 5G devices is open, but widespread commercial coverage is still in development.
3G Sunset: None. unlike Saudi Arabia or Kuwait, Syria still relies heavily on 2G and 3G networks due to infrastructure challenges. Devices supporting only 3G are still permitted and functional.
5. Labeling Requirements
Mandatory Label: Approved equipment must carry the SY-TPRA compliance label.
Format: Typically a black-on-white label containing the SY-TPRA logo and the specific Type Approval Registration Number.
Placement: Affixed to the device (or packaging/manual if the device is too small).
6. Documentation Checklist
Application Form (Filed by local partner).
Datasheet & Technical Specs.
EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
Test Reports (RED): RF, EMC, Safety, SAR.
Circuit Diagram / Block Diagram (Often requested).
GSMA TAC Letter: For cellular devices (IMEI verification).
Overview
Wireless Type Approval Rules: Syria (SyTPRA)
The Syrian Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority (SyTPRA) enforces strict control over wireless spectrum and equipment. While the technical standards align with Europe, the security restrictions (due to local conditions) and administrative hurdles (sanctions/customs) make it a unique environment.
Below are the specific technical and procedural rules for wireless devices.
1. Technical & Spectrum Rules
European Compliance (RED): Syria does not create its own technical standards for every device. It accepts ETSI (European) test reports.
Rule: If your device is CE marked and complies with the Radio Equipment Directive (RED), it meets the core technical requirements for SyTPRA.
Safety: IEC 62368-1 is strictly enforced. Old 60950 reports are rejected for new applications.
Wi-Fi Frequency Bands:
2.4 GHz: 2400–2483.5 MHz (Max 100 mW EIRP).
5 GHz:
5150–5350 MHz (Indoor Only, Max 200 mW).
5470–5725 MHz (DFS Required).
Wi-Fi 6E (6 GHz):
Allowed Band: 5925–6425 MHz (Lower 6 GHz band).
Power Limit: Max 200 mW (23 dBm) EIRP.
Condition: Strictly for Low Power Indoor (LPI) use. Outdoor use in this band is not permitted.
Cellular Technologies:
2G/3G: unlike the Gulf states, Syria still utilizes 2G (900/1800 MHz) and 3G (2100 MHz) extensively. Devices supporting only 3G are permitted.
4G (LTE): widely deployed (Band 3 – 1800 MHz is common).
5G: Pilot phases are active, but mass commercial deployment rules are still evolving.
2. The “Negative List” (Prohibited/Restricted)
Due to the security situation, the following categories face extreme scrutiny or outright bans:
Drones (UAVs): Strictly Prohibited for personal import. Commercial import requires pre-approval from the Ministry of Interior and SyTPRA, which is difficult to obtain.
Satellite Internet (Starlink): Explicitly banned without a specific operator license. Possession of unauthorized Starlink terminals can lead to legal penalties.
Satellite Phones: Devices like Iridium/Thuraya require security clearance.
High Power Long-Range Radios: Anything exceeding standard consumer power limits (e.g., Walkie Talkies > 0.5W) requires Ministry of Defense clearance.
3. Labeling Rules
Mandatory SyTPRA Label: You must affix the regulatory label to the approved equipment.
Format:
Color: Black text on a white background.
Content: Must include the SyTPRA Logo and the unique Type Approval Certificate Number.
Placement: On the product hardware. If the product is too small, it can be placed on the packaging or in the user manual.
4. Administrative Rules
Local Applicant (Critical): You cannot apply as a foreign manufacturer. You must have a locally registered Syrian company (dealer/distributor) to submit the application on your behalf.
Validity: Certificates are valid for 3 years.
Samples: SyTPRA reserves the right to request a sample. In practice, this happens more frequently for new technology (like Wi-Fi 6E routers) to verify they are software-locked to the correct region.
Overview
In Syria, the scope for Type Approval is comprehensive. The Syrian Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority (SyTPRA) mandates approval for any device that emits radio frequencies or connects to the public telecommunication network.
Unlike some jurisdictions that only regulate the “radio” part, Syria regulates the “terminal” aspect heavily (e.g., wired phones and fax machines are still strictly controlled).
1. Mobile & Cellular Devices
Smartphones & Feature Phones (2G, 3G, 4G supported).
Tablets (Cellular/SIM-enabled models).
Mobile Routers (Mi-Fi, Dongles, CPEs).
Vehicle Trackers (AVL): GPS trackers with a SIM card are heavily scrutinized for security; you must often provide the IMEI list during the application.
Smartwatches (with eSIM/Cellular).
2. Wireless Networking (Wi-Fi/WLAN)
Wireless Routers & Access Points (Home and Enterprise).
Wi-Fi 6E Devices: Now allowed (5925–6425 MHz, Low Power Indoor).
Wi-Fi Bridges & Outdoor Links: Requires strict frequency checks to ensure they don’t interfere with military or telco bands.
Gateways & Switches with wireless capability.
3. Short Range Devices (SRD) & IoT
Bluetooth Devices: Headphones, speakers, keyboards, mice, printers.
RFID & NFC: Access control readers, tags, inventory scanners.
Remote Controls: Garage door openers, car key fobs (433 MHz, 315 MHz).
Wireless Microphones: Audio systems for events/mosques.
Smart Home: Zigbee/Z-Wave sensors (motion, door, temp).
4. Terminal Equipment (Wired)
Even if the device has no radio, it requires approval if it connects to the wired network.
Landline Telephones (Analog & IP).
Fax Machines: Still commonly used and regulated.
PABX / PBX Systems: Enterprise telephone exchanges.
Fiber ONTs & ADSL/VDSL Modems.
5. The “Negative List” (Prohibited or Restricted)
These devices are difficult to import. They either require special security clearance (Ministry of Interior/Defense) or are banned.
Drones (UAVs): Commercial and recreational drones are generally prohibited for personal import. Special commercial licenses are rare and hard to get.
Satellite Internet (Starlink/VSAT): strictly regulated. Unauthorized terminals are illegal.
Satellite Phones: (Iridium, Thuraya, Inmarsat) – Restricted.
Jammers: Strictly prohibited.
High-Power Long Range Radios: (e.g., Walkie Talkies > 0.5W) require Ministry of Defense clearance.
6. Exemptions
Personal Use: Travelers entering Syria with a single personal device (e.g., 1 phone, 1 laptop) are exempt from Type Approval.
Components: Passive components (antennas, cables) usually do not need Type Approval, though customs may still question them.
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